Saratoga County Department of Health regulates the operation of recreational aquatic spray grounds in Saratoga County per the New York State Sanitary Code, SubPart 6-3, Recreational Aquatic Spray Grounds. The Department of Health staff, in cooperation with local owners/operators, work to ensure that aquatic recreational spray grounds are safe and well maintained for all to enjoy.

Recreational aquatic spray grounds, also known as “spray grounds”, are play areas with water features that spray, sprinkle, and drop water.

A spray pad is the specific area consisting of the play surface, spray features, and drains, upon which the patrons stand and are sprayed with water.

No. Saratoga County only regulates recreational aquatic spray grounds in which sprayed water is continually drained and collected in a treatment and recirculation system. Spray grounds that discharge to waste without impoundment or recirculation of the water are not regulated by Saratoga County Department of Health.

Public Health Specialists inspect many elements of a recreational aquatic spray ground including:

  1. Water Quality: Inspectors test for proper chlorine and pH levels, ensuring water is safe and free from contaminants.
  2. Filtration and Circulation: They review the filtration systems to ensure they effectively clean and circulate water.
  3. Drainage: Inspectors check that drainage systems are functioning properly to prevent standing water and potential hazards.
  4. Surface Conditions: They assess the surface material for safety, ensuring it is slip-resistant and in good condition.
  5. Sanitary Facilities: Availability and cleanliness of restrooms, changing areas, and handwashing stations are evaluated.
  6. Maintenance: Inspectors look for regular maintenance records and general upkeep of the spray ground and equipment.
  7. Safety Features: They check for emergency procedures, signage, and barriers to keep children safe.
  8. Compliance with Regulations: Overall adherence to local and state health regulations is assessed.

The responsibilities of a recreational aquatic spray ground owner or operator include, but are not limited to:
1. Spray ground operators are responsible for adhering to all requirements outlined in the New York State Sanitary Code, SubPart 6-3, Recreational Aquatic Spray Grounds.
2. Operation of a spray ground without a permit is a violation of this Subpart. Applications for a spray ground permit must be submitted 45 days prior to the expiration of a permit or at least 45 days before the opening of any spray ground.
3. The owner or operator of a spray ground must report any injury or illness occurring at a spray ground to the Saratoga County Department of Health within 24 hours of its occurrence and make a record of the incident in a logbook.
4. All incidents that result in death, require resuscitation, require referral to a hospital or other medical facility, or an illness alleged to be associated with the spray ground water quality, must be reported.

To report a violation or unsafe conditions please call the Saratoga County Department of Health at (518) 584-7460 or email us at

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Apply Online
Complete the application online using the Saratoga County Citizen Engagement Portal.

  1. Create an account or log in with an existing
  2. Select Recreational Aquatic Spray Ground Permit
  3. Complete the online application and upload the required
  4. Pay by debit, credit card, or e-check

Apply Online Now

Apply In Person or by Mail
Mail to or drop off at:
Saratoga County Department of Health
6012 County Farm Road
Ballston Spa, NY 12020

Make checks payable to Saratoga County Department of Health. Partial Payments are not accepted.

Download a printable permit to operate.

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